The AirDrop feature has been a staple for Apple device users since iOS 7, making the sharing of photos, videos, documents, and more a breeze. Now, Apple has announced several game-changing updates to the AirDrop functionality, set to arrive with iOS 17.
Gearing Up for an Enhanced AirDrop Experience
Here are the top five enhancements that will redefine your AirDrop experience, expected to arrive with iOS 17 this fall. Are these changes enough to revolutionize your use of AirDrop? Don’t forget to leave your thoughts in the comment section!
- Introducing NameDrop
In the iOS 17 preview, Apple introduced the NameDrop feature. Say goodbye to the tedious task of typing out phone numbers for new contacts. With NameDrop, you can now share contact details by simply holding your iPhone near another iPhone.
- Gesture-Based Content Sharing
With iOS 17, sharing content like photos and files becomes more intuitive. Just bring two iPhones close together, and AirDrop will facilitate the transfer without needing to manually select the recipient via the Share Sheet.
- Persistent AirDrop Over Internet
No more failed transfers due to exiting the AirDrop range! iOS 17 allows your content to continue sharing securely over the internet, ensuring the transfer completes in full quality. This feature requires both parties to be signed into iCloud.
- Shared Activities via SharePlay
By holding two iPhones together, you can initiate shared activities via SharePlay. Now, you and a friend can listen to music or watch a movie together. This feature will also be accessible to third-party developers.
- Preventing Unsolicited Content with Explicit Image Blurring
To protect users from unsolicited explicit content, iOS 17 introduces an opt-in feature that automatically blurs images sent over AirDrop containing sensitive content. Users can view the blurred content by tapping a “Show” button. This feature is akin to Apple’s Communication Safety functionality, with all detection carried out on the device, ensuring privacy.
These updates to AirDrop showcase Apple’s commitment to enhancing user experience and promoting secure digital interaction. How will these changes impact your use of AirDrop? We invite you to share your thoughts and opinions in the comments section below.
